Cholesterol Explained: Good, Bad and the Normal Ranges
Cholesterol is not bad in itself — the body needs it. The problem is an imbalance in type and amount. Here is what the numbers on your report mean.
Cholesterol is usually treated as simply a bad thing. In fact the body needs it — it builds cell walls and makes certain hormones. The trouble starts with an imbalance.
LDL and HDL
- LDL — often called "bad", because at high levels it is associated with deposits building in artery walls
- HDL — called "good"; it plays a part in carrying excess cholesterol back to the liver
- Triglycerides — another fat in the blood, pushed up by sugar, alcohol and excess calories
The ranges
| Test | Range commonly used |
|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Below 200 mg/dL |
| LDL | Below 100 mg/dL |
| HDL | Above 40 (men), above 50 (women) |
| Triglycerides | Below 150 mg/dL |
Laboratories differ slightly. More importantly, what counts as an acceptable LDL for you is not read off the number alone — doctors weigh it with your age, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and family history.
Symptoms
There are none. Raised cholesterol cannot be felt, which is why it is tested on schedule rather than on symptoms.
What actually shifts it
- Less fried food and fewer bakery items
- More fibre — pulses, whole grains, oats, vegetables, fruit
- A handful of nuts and seeds
- 30 minutes of activity on most days
- Losing even a modest amount of weight if it is high
- Stopping smoking — it affects HDL directly
- Limiting alcohol, particularly with raised triglycerides
Is medication necessary?
That is not decided by the number alone. Doctors weigh your overall risk. For some, lifestyle is enough; for others medication is needed. Do not stop it on your own once started — the improved report is usually the medication working.
Frequently asked questions
Do eggs raise cholesterol?+
In most people, eggs in normal amounts matter less than commonly believed. Fried food and trans fats matter more.
Can thin people have high cholesterol?+
Yes. It depends on genetics, diet and activity as well as weight.
Do I need to fast for the test?+
A 9-12 hour fast is often requested, particularly for triglycerides. Follow your laboratory or doctor’s instruction.
How often should it be repeated?+
It depends on your report and risk — your doctor decides. After making changes, usually a few months later.